A new survey conducted by Talker Research on behalf of Doctor On Demand by Included Health has revealed that financial anxiety among Americans is reaching unprecedented levels, with more than two-thirds of respondents reporting it's at an all-time high. The study of 2,000 U.S. adults reinforces Included Health's perspective that mental, physical, and financial health are inextricably connected.
The research highlights the urgent need for comprehensive, accessible, and affordable healthcare solutions that address this interconnectedness—the foundation of Included Health's personalized all-in-one care model designed to improve health outcomes, eliminate unnecessary costs, and support individuals and families nationwide.
Financial stress is having a disproportionate impact across generations, with younger and middle-aged adults feeling the greatest strain: 71% of Gen Z, 68% of Millennials, and 69% of Gen X report experiencing anxiety over finances, compared to 55% of Baby Boomers and just 31% of the Silent Generation (age 80 and up).
The survey uncovered concerning trends in Americans' ability to cope with financial stress:
76% feel alone in managing money-related worries
20% report a decline in their mental health over the past year
33% say healthcare affordability has negatively impacted their mental health
29% cite cost as the main obstacle to seeking professional care
Only 14% are currently receiving therapy or counseling services
40% have taken a mental health day, with 52% of those individuals feeling compelled to lie about their reason for absence
"At a time when financial stress is meaningfully impacting mental well-being, access to mental health services should not be another source of anxiety," said Dana Udall, Ph.D, vice president of behavioral health at Included Health. "People deserve clear, affordable pathways to support. At Included Health, we are committed to guiding individuals, both through their benefits in partnership with employers and directly with our Doctor On Demand service, to reduce as many barriers to healing and wellness as possible."
Despite these challenges, the survey indicates most Americans are finding ways to prioritize their mental health, with 70% recognizing the strong connection between mental and physical wellbeing. According to the data, 71% engage in physical activity at least weekly to manage their mental health, while approximately half are focusing on addressing physical needs such as getting enough sleep (48%), exercising (48%), and spending quality, in-person time with loved ones (46%).
"Americans aren't just acknowledging the importance of addressing their mental and physical health holistically—they're reshaping their daily lives around it," Udall said. "More people are recognizing how deeply mental, physical, and even financial health are intertwined. That's why expanding access to high-quality, affordable care that treats the whole person is more critical than ever. Lasting wellness depends on supporting every aspect of an individual—what we at Included Health call mind, body, and wallet support."
Included Health is addressing these interconnected challenges through its comprehensive care model that spans physical and mental health, along with system-wide navigation support to help individuals maximize their healthcare benefits and reduce out-of-pocket costs.
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